“When Life Gives You Tangerines” Overtakes “Squid Game” and “The Glory” to Become Highest-Rated K-Drama on IMDb

IU and Park Bo Gum’s heartfelt Netflix series “When Life Gives You Tangerines” has officially carved its name in history, emerging as the highest-rated Korean drama on IMDb. The slice-of-life K-drama has surpassed globally renowned titles like “Squid Game” and Song Hye Kyo’s The Glory, becoming a new fan-favourite worldwide.

"When Life Gives You Tangerines is now officially the highest-rated Korean drama on IMDb, having surpassed big titles like Squid Game and Song Hye Kyo’s The Glory."

Even after its finale, the buzz surrounding the drama has shown no signs of slowing down. Garnering rave reviews from critics and audiences globally, the series now holds a remarkable IMDb score of 9.3 out of 10.

"IU and Park Bo Gum’s Netflix gem may have ended its run, but the buzz clearly hasn’t died down."

The drama’s IMDb rating witnessed a steady rise, climbing from 8.7 to an impressive 9.3 post its emotional finale. The final episodes captured a rollercoaster of emotions — from Oh Ae Sun’s daughter Yang Geum Myeong’s wedding to Kim Seon Ho’s character, to the heartbreaking demise of Park Bo Gum’s Gwan Sik, and finally, a new chapter opening in Ae Sun’s life.

"The last three episodes revolved around Oh Ae Sun’s daughter Yang Geum Myeong getting married to Kim Seon Ho’s character, Park Bo Gum’s Gwan Sik losing his battle with cancer, and a new chapter opening up in Ae Sun’s life."

Episode 16 alone garnered a near-perfect score of 9.9 on IMDb, and twelve episodes from the series have scored 9 or higher, showcasing its consistent quality and emotional depth.

"The show saw a steady jump in its IMDb score, climbing from 8.7 to an impressive 9.3 after its finale."

This extraordinary performance places “When Life Gives You Tangerines” ahead of several other celebrated Korean dramas, including Kingdom Season 2 (8.2), Move to Heaven (8.5), The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (8.4), Squid Game Season 1 (8.0), and The Glory Season 2 (8.1).

"With that, the drama has officially surpassed several popular titles, including Kingdom Season 2 with a score of 8.2, Move to Heaven at 8.5, The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call with 8.4, the globally famous Squid Game Season 1 at 8.0, and even Song Hye Kyo’s revenge hit The Glory Season 2 with 8.1."

The drama's dominance extended beyond ratings. Recently, it climbed to the No.1 spot on Netflix’s global non-English chart after consistently ranking at No.3 and No.4 in the preceding weeks.

"When Life Gives You Tangerines climbed to No 1 on Netflix’s global non-English chart last week after holding steady at No 3 and No 4 in previous weeks."

Despite concluding its 16-episode journey on March 28, the drama maintains a stronghold on Netflix charts, currently sitting at No.3 this week. With 6 million views, it remains the No.1 show in four countries and has secured a place in the Top 10 across 39 countries.

"The show wrapped up its 16-episode run on March 28, but it’s still holding strong, currently sitting at No 3 this week. With 6 million views, it’s the No 1 show in four countries this weekend and in the Top 10 across 39 countries."

According to data from IGAWorks Mobile Index, Netflix Korea witnessed 14.09 million active users in March 2024. The day after the finale alone saw 4.05 million daily active users — a record-breaking figure since Squid Game Season 2 in December 2023.

"According to the IGAWorks Mobile Index, 14.09 million active viewers tuned in to Netflix Korea in March 2024, with March 29 (the day after the finale) racking up 4.05 million daily active users alone. That figure is said to be the best one-day number since Squid Game Season 2 in December 2023, breaking the previous record set by The Glory."

Initially perceived as another picturesque K-drama set against Jeju Island’s serene backdrop, the show gradually won hearts through its comforting narrative, realistic portrayal of life’s struggles, and refreshing departure from typical K-drama clichés.

"When the show first aired, it felt like just another K-drama set against the serene backdrop of Jeju Island. But as it progressed, the comforting storyline, the break from the usual rich-CEO trope, the raw real-life struggles, and the cast’s chemistry kept viewers hooked."

Despite the early exit of Park Bo Gum’s character, the compelling performances of IU and the ensemble cast ensured the drama remained impactful till its very end.

"Even though Bo Gum’s character arc ended early, the story remained strong with IU and the supporting cast masterfully carrying the show on their shoulder."

Directed by Kim Won Suk and penned by acclaimed writer Im Sang Choon, the series narrates a tender story of love, perseverance, and growth.

"The show is directed by Kim Won Suk and penned by Im Sang Choon."

As IMDb describes it, “A spirited girl in Jeju and a steadfast boy’s island story blossoms into a lifelong tale of setbacks and triumphs, proving love endures across time.”